J.C. Kellogg Foundation Fund

The Gateway Family YMCA was awarded a $50,000 grant from the J.C. Kellogg Foundation Fund to assist the YMCA in serving homeless and housing insecure residents through Emergency, Transitional and Supportive Housing Programs during this global pandemic.

“We are thankful for the generous support of the J.C. Kellogg Foundation Fund.  This grant assists us in helping some of the families and communities feeling the greatest strain under the COVID-19 health emergency,” stated Krystal R. Canady, CEO.  “In 2020, our Y served 755 unduplicated men, women, seniors and children through YMCA housing programs.”

The Gateway Family YMCA has served the local community for over 120 years, providing housing and social services for over 300 individuals, families and veterans each evening. Through residential housing programs in Elizabeth and Plainfield, as well as a supportive housing program throughout Union County, the Y provides emergency, transitional and affordable permanent housing opportunities along with wraparound social services focusing on employment preparation, life skills and case management.  On average, 95% of residents make significant progress on their Individualized Service Plans, and 70% transition to permanent housing within 12-48 months.

“The reality of the COVID-19 pandemic meant our residents lost jobs, became food insecure and struggled to access mainstream resources in a world that turned remote overnight. We have seen an increased need for essential housing and social services during this global health crisis,” said Melynda A. Mileski, EVP/COO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “We provide support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the most vulnerable individuals, families and veterans in our community. Extra precautions and facility improvements have been taken in our housing buildings for the protection of our residents and staff.”

The Gateway Family YMCA’s housing programs are open to all residents of Union County regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, primary language, or veteran status.  As one of more than 25 agencies collaborating in Union County’s Continuum of Care unit, The Gateway Family YMCA works with other partner agencies to end homelessness and prevent a return to homelessness in Union County, NJ.

If you or someone you know is in need of emergency shelter, please contact Union County’s 24-Hour Homeless Emergency Response Hotline at 2-1-1. They will direct you to the housing program and support services that can best support you and your loved ones.

The Gateway Family YMCA is a leading 501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other.  Working locally, the Y focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities.  By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y ensure that all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive.

For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA or Residential Programs, visit www.tgfymca.org or contact 908-355-9622.